Holy Mass is a privilege, let’s take it seriously

Fr. Steve Ransome, the parish priest of St. Philip and St. James in Chaguanas, told attendees at a praise and worship conference on October 10 that many Catholics do not treat the Holy Mass with the seriousness it deserves.

Speaking at the People of Praise Sound the Trumpet conference held at Bishop Anstey High School/Trinity College East, Fr. Ransome described the ability to behold Jesus Christ in the Blessed Sacrament and receive Him in the Eucharist as a privilege. He noted that people often offer excuses for missing Mass, such as being unprepared with their clothing or hair, or being delayed by family members. He also shared an instance where a person told him they would attend Mass according to their own timing.

Fr. Ransome stated that missing Mass is damaging and that some people arrive at the celebration with an angry disposition. He emphasized that Catholics are blessed by a God who reveals Himself to humanity, but noted that a true understanding of this privilege should lead to a change in how people live.